FLOWER SHOW EVALUATION

Transcription

1 GARDEN CLUB OF AMERICA 14 East 60th Street, New York, New YORK BRIDGES Incredible Crossings A Garden Club of America Flower Show Presented by The Garden Club of Englewood The Englewood Field Club Englewood, New Jersey October 12 and 13, 2012 FLOWER SHOW EVALUATION TO: Katie Downes and Jane Majeske, Flower Show co-chairmen with copy to Laura Haley, GCA National Flower Show Chairman and Diane Majeski, President, The Garden Club of Englewood FROM: R. Ellen Avellino, Zone II Flower Show Committee Representative acting for Katie Downes, Zone IV Flower Show Committee Representative The Judges applaud the Flower Show Committee and all members of The Garden Club of Englewood for a wonderful, multidimensional Flower Show that showed the beauty and broadened knowledge of, horticulture, floral design, photography and conservation. Indeed, the Judges felt BRIDGES Incredible Crossings succeeded with high honors in achieving the stated purposes of a Garden Club of America flower show. The many Garden Club of America special awards merited and given demonstrate the high level of creativity and competence that BRIDGES Incredible Crossings inspired. In one Judge s words, the organization of the show, as a whole, was impressive from start to finish. In addition to giving well-deserved kudos and pointing to the special features that made the Flower Show worthy of recognition, the Judges recognize their responsibility to offer thoughts that you might consider when planning this important Zone IV GCA Flower Show in the future. The Judges comments and/or suggestions listed below are italicized.

2 THEME The word bridges connotes bonds, associations, unions, channels, passages, viaducts, links, attachment, ties, conduits, ties- the list goes on and on. As any interpretation conveys, BRIDGES Incredible Crossings cleverly and meaningfully incorporated The Garden Club of Englewood s physical juxtaposition with The George, a bridge both refracting and reflecting the beauty of both New York and New Jersey. The theme also could have connoted structures reaching for the sky thus evoking a sense of the Englewood community, as the community it truly is with its highest life quality and level of sophistication, that further served to evoke a high level response from the all exhibitors. On another level, BRIDGES Incredible Crossings presented quality exhibits with a brilliant display of autumnal beauty that connected the disciplines- floral design, horticulture, photography and conservation all to educate and achieve the stated purposes of a Garden Club of America flower show. On yet another level, the Flower Show Committee s careful, detailed, artful and creative execution of the theme bridged flower show substance with flower show procedure to create an inspiring and welcoming and most enjoyable experience for all! BRIDGES Incredible Crossings was truly an inspiring and natural theme, and the Committee well-integrated BRIDGES Incredible Crossings into the Show through the schedule and its class titles, staging and in-show signage. SHOW SCHEDULE The schedule was interesting, inspiring and successfully incorporated the Show s theme throughout all divisions. The schedule contained all necessary information. The terminology, class titles and other descriptions were correct, clear, concise and complete. It met the requirements of a Garden Club of America flower show. It was most convenient that the Committee distributed the schedule electronically. One had the ability at any time to download it in parts, or in its entirety. The Judges agreed that the horticulture classes were appropriate to the season and the ability of the exhibitors; the floral design classes were appropriate for the show s theme. The Judges agreed that the photography classes were most inspiring and appropriate to the ability of the exhibitors. The Judges agreed that the Conservation/Educational Exhibit was most enlightening for the community. VENUE Specially, The Field Club was inviting and spacious overall. The Flower Show looked and felt beautiful. Its open rooms that flowed into one another served as a generous and inviting backdrop that enhanced the Show and lent inspiration to all exhibiters. The Club s generous reception complemented the Conservation/Education Exhibit most dramatically. Indeed, the space showcased all the exhibits well. Page 2 of 9

3 VENUE (continued) The Field Club s newest sport facility meeting room offered for the Judges breakfast and luncheon is strong testament to the Field Club s appreciation for its collaborative efforts with, and respect for the members of, The Garden Club of Englewood. The Club was open to the public during the stated viewing hours of the Flower Show. STAGING OVERALL IN ALL DIVISIONS The Flower Show s staging provided adequate exhibition space, overall. The use of the outdoor covered terrace provided welcomed space for the passing of horticulture entries. The Committee carried its themed staging throughout the Show. Staging of all divisions was practical; staging within all classes in all divisions was uniform. In floral design, the Judges favored that the Committee grouped exhibits in a manner that allowed the viewing of an entire class from one vantage point. Overall, the Flower Show s flow within divisions, and from division to another, facilitated comfortable and logical movement for exhibitors, judges and the viewing public. Viewing aisles were open and adequate. Further, staging in all divisions allowed classes sufficient breathing space to enhance viewer appreciation. In horticulture, the Judges appreciated especially that the committee provided viewing access from both sides of the exhibition tables. IN-SHOW SIGNAGE Signage identified clearly each division and each class maintaining the style and theme of the show. In general, in-show signage was uniform; informational; well-placed and attractive. The signage was directive and understandable, clearly marking divisions and classes throughout the show. The Judges thought that the signage worked nicely. Pre-SHOW and SHOW COMMUNICATIONS The Judges noted especially the complete, timely, unambiguous communications from the Flower Show Committee both before and during the Flower Show- they were most helpful. Specifically, the Judges mentioned the practical driving instructions, especially the convenient reverse directions. The Judges charging was complete and concise. The Judges appreciated the ready availability of the show s chairs, division chairs and other Committee members throughout the entry period, passing of exhibits and judging. Page 3 of 9

4 SET UP and PASSING In general, set up was well-organized and planned thoughtfully. In floral design, the team approach seemed to work well- a sufficient number of helpers were available to aide exhibitors and a sufficient number of passers were available during the perennial last minute rush to finish designs or identify plant material correctly prior to the closing of entry time. In horticulture, the separate area for grooming, nomenclature search and entry card writing was spread amongst several tables on the outdoor terrace. The Judges noted the passing tables on the terrace with runners available for placement of the entries. CLERKS The Judges noted that the clerks in all divisions were instructed properly; therefore, they were well-prepared to serve their respective panels. In general, the Judges described all clerks as enormously helpful, eager to please, capable and proficient scribes who did a very terrific job. Indeed, the Flower Show s clerks acted as the judges second hands, exemplifying the proper role of a clerk in earnest. The Judges were pleased that the Committee recognized clerking as an important and serious responsibility contributing to the show greatly. LIGHTING The Judges recognize that lighting and specialized lighting can be financially onerous. While mindful of high lighting costs, specialty or otherwise, the Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future, if possible, the Committee plan lighting that is evenly distributed between and among the floral design, horticulture and photography divisions. Specifically in floral design, the Judges noted that if the same venue is used, perhaps the show, in general, could benefit from expanded lighting, overhead and spot lighting, as necessary or desirable. In photography, the fixed lights attached to the viewing boards were very bright and focused only on selected photos; the light cans on the floor were less bright and unevenly placed. While the overall presentation of the photography division was attractive, the Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future, if possible, lighting could be more uniform throughout the division. The Judges found the lighting for the Conservation/Educational Exhibit calming. It created a perfect mood for one to consider and appreciate consider the Club s serious commitment to conservation. DIVISION I, FLORAL DESIGN The overall quality of the floral designs was high. The Judges, without placing responsibility with the Flower Show Committee, questioned whether the exhibitors themselves met the challenge of the schedule. Nonetheless, an adequate interpretation of the show s theme and class titles was evident throughout. Plant material was in good condition. Page 4 of 9

5 DIVISION I, FLORAL DESIGN (continued) Some entry cards did not list all the plant material used in the particular exhibit and others listed plant material that was not present in the exhibit; some or others did not include botanical nomenclature. The Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future the Committee gently could remind floral design passers that it is part of the passers responsibility to review all entry cards for proper plant material identification. Passers may be proactive and assist exhibitors with plant material identification. The Judges noted that 4 of the 5 design classes were open in that they called only for a design. Commendably, these classes did not restrict the exhibitors to specific design styles or types of design or execution; these classes sanctioned exhibiters to express imagination and fancy in their own chosen styles or types, thus exploring endless possibilities of organization, form and structure with flora and other design components. Thus, they encouraged exhibitors greater creative responses to the schedule, overall. The Judges complimented Class 5 Pressed Flowers as being especially noteworthy as most, if not all exhibitors, held novice status. The Judges issued the following commendation for the class: Class 5, Pressed Flowers : Congratulations on embarking on a new adventure! Well done! The Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future that the Committee consider a pressed materials class in the floral design divisions with a smaller number of entries, or, several smaller classes of the same genre. This would allow for a greater number of deserving blue ribbons and other placements. The Judges also complimented the exhibitor s response to Class 4, Suspension. The Committee announced at the Judges Briefing that one of the class, included in the approved Flower Show schedule, was cancelled prior to, and not included in the program of, the Flower Show. All GCA Special Awards were merited and awarded, except the Baylor and the Puckett. DIVISION II, HORTICULTURE Overall, the level of cultural perfection of the horticulture was high to excellent, as evidenced by placements and awards, and the ability of the exhibitors. Overall, plant material called for in the schedule carried a strong focus on, and was most appropriate for, the autumnal season. The division carried a diverse (variety) and high quality of specimens in good form for the time of year. The Judges noted the uniform, neat presentation and use of the test tubes for the cut specimens; The Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future, if possible, the Committee could select improved, uniform wedging materials that would add viewing advantage for the cut specimens in the horticulture division. Specifically, the Judges favored the following classes with the following specific Judges Page 5 of 9

6 DIVISION II, HORTICULTURE (continued) Commendations: Class 3, Cut Specimen Collection : Bravo! Excellent selection of plant material any time but particularly at this time of year. and Class 11, Autumn Bouquet : Impressive array of beautiful autumn bouquets! For the most part, exhibitors properly identified entries and exhibitors placed entries in proper classes. To increase the educational value of the entry cards in the horticulture division the Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future flower show personnel be available to aide exhibitors in completing all of the sections of all entry cards in the horticulture division. Overall, the Judges noted favorably that almost all entries were adequately groomed and adequately-presented ; however, there was a case or two of infestation and/or disease. The Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future flower show personnel in horticulture can address and rectify presentation issues during the entry/passing procedure; the Committee could remind passers, gently but especially, that their responsibilities include checking that an entry is presented to its best advantage. All classes filled. All GCA Special Awards were merited and awarded. DIVISION III, PHOTOGRAPHY The Judges stated unanimously that the general and overall quality of each image within the Photography Division was excellent. The exhibitors produced wonderful, high quality landscape and close-up in both color and monochrome. The Judges commended the division overall with the following: Photography Division: In every way, a stellar composition!" The Judges agreed that the exhibitors response to the photography division was superb - class themes matched the ability of, and were well-interpreted by, exhibitors. The placement of high seconds in two distinct classes underscored the strong technical and creative ability of the photographers. Specifically, the Judges recognized the schedule s success to attract both new and experienced exhibitors to the photography division. The Judges noted that photography division benefited greatly from its central rear prominence within the show. One Judge commented specifically that the staging held a lovely presence within the show. The Judges much appreciated the Committee efforts to secure new and quite attractive and viewing boards. The Judges were impressed particularly with their dark grey-almost black coloration, their portability ; their seven foot or so height. Especially, the Judges commented Page 6 of 9

7 DIVISION III, PHOTOGRAPHY (continued) how easily Velcro attached to the viewing boards- allowing easy attachment of photos and the attachment and easy removal of entry cards- this was most practical for the writing of comments on entry cards. Large classes within the division encourage a larger number of exhibitors in each such class; however, large classes also carry a higher probability than others that one or more of the entries may not place. This was the case with the final judging results in the division for Class 3, Bridging the Generations which called for 8 entries. The Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future, the Committee would consider a smaller number of exhibitors, perhaps 4, in such a class. Fewer entries per class may encourage judges to leave fewer entries without ribbon placement, if merited. The Judges noted that many photos were stacked slightly above and below a comfortable level for physical viewing. Recognizing the need to balance optimum viewing with available, perhaps limited, space, the Judges suggest that, perhaps in the future, if possible, all photos be placed at comfortable level for viewing. The judges noted that the photography classes tended to flow into one another and it was not easy to distinguish one from another. The Judges suggest that, perhaps, in the future, if possible, greater separation among the classes could be achieved with some type of physical divider, such as a colored ribbon, or separating the classes physically on different viewing board. The Judges praised the Show s photography personnel for confirming that all entry cards were completed and correctly written; all entries were placed within appropriate classes. All classes filled. All GCA Special Awards were merited and awarded. DIVISION IV, CONSERVATION/EDUCATION EXHIBIT The Judges described the Conservation Exhibit as excellent. Highlighting The Garden Club of Englewood s, and others, efforts to bring back the mighty giant the American Chestnut, the Judges stated that the exhibit was one of the best conservation/education exhibits seen in a GCA flower show. The level of detail in the physical presentation of the materials, from the acorns on the tables to the apparently custom-made easels made of tree bark ratified the efforts that the Committee gave to make this exhibit SUPER - the exact term that the Judges used to describe the exhibit overall. The great graphics, detailed poster/presentation and written information (all very neat, typewritten and skillfully done) on the history of the Tree, its important value to humans, the environmental information on the Chestnut s blight and details on the current efforts and research on cross-breeding with the Chinese Chestnut were more than commendable. The Information Packet reproduced mostly in four-color print handouts was carefully and thoughtfully compiled. It was most noteworthy. The Judges noted the inclusion of scrumptious recipes featuring chestnuts naturally heighten a viewer s interest in the exhibit! The grand prominence of the exhibit at the entrance to the show coincided with the grandness of the Chestnut Tree and the strong demonstrable, extraordinary efforts of The Garden Club of Englewood had made through its participation in the Tenafly Nature Center and The American Chestnut Foundation. Page 7 of 9

8 DIVISION IV, CONSERVATION/EDUCATION EXHIBIT (continued) The exhibit was succinct and informative, productive and important; the fact that the exhibit earned both prestigious awards, The Anne Lyon Crammond Awards (for education) and The Marion Thompson Fuller Brown Conservation Award truly underscores the true accomplishments of the exhibit, including viewing and educational successes! SUMMARY As is so apparent from this evaluation, there were many highlights of BRIDGES Incredible Crossings! worthy of the Judges uniform, unequivocal and unqualified praise. The Judges much admired the Flower Show Committee for their demonstrated firm sense of control at the Show. Indeed, their extensive, long planning underpinned the Flower Show Committee s successes. The extensive presentation and complexity of the Flower Show belies the fact The Garden Club of Englewood presented this show with 28 show personnel! The Judges were most appreciative of The Garden Club of Englewood s thoughtfully warm hospitality and refreshment for both breakfast and lunch! Most impressively, starched table linens reinforced the value of attention to detail devoted to the Flower Show. The Judges took great pleasure in this Show and, no doubt, it was the Flower Show Committee s extra attention to such details as dining finery that made BRIDGES Incredible Crossings the flower show it was! On behalf of The Garden Club of America, the Judges celebrate every member of The Garden Club of Englewood for their individual and collective efforts. Indeed, the Judges send their sincerest compliments to every member of The Garden Club of Englewood for each member s energy, enthusiasm, dedication, diligence, meticulousness and passion in pursuing this endeavor. The Judges were grateful for the privilege to serve as passers, judges and evaluators of for BRIDGES Incredible Crossings! The Judges felt that BRIDGES Incredible Crossings was a true gift to the Englewood/Bergen County community! Bravo and thank you, The Garden Club of Englewood! Surely, you will need to build another bridge connecting The Garden Club of Englewood with the community through another flower show, real soon! THE JUDGES SUBMIT THIS EVALUATION WITH RESPECT AND IN ADMIRATION. Compiled by R. Ellen Avellino Zone II Flower Show Representative, Page 8 of 9

9 GARDEN CLUB OF AMERICA AWARDS RECORD DIVISION I, FLORAL DESIGN The Harriet DeWaele Puckett Creativity Award Not awarded The Dorothy Vietor Munger Award. Judy Tucci, The Garden Club of Englewood The Sandra Baylor Novice Award. Not Awarded The Best in Show for Floral Design.. Judy Tucci, The Garden Club of Englewood DIVISION II, HORTICULTURE The Catherine Beattie Medal Kathy Shepperly, Garden Club of Morristown The Clarissa Willemsen Horticulture Propagation Award. Annie Bigliani, The Garden Club of Englewood The Rose Jones Horticulture Award... Louise Wellemeyer Stony Brook Garden Club The GCA Novice Award in Horticulture... Grania Allport, Garden Club of Somerset Hills The Best in Show for Horticulture..... Grania Allport, Garden Club of Somerset Hills DIVISION III, PHOTOGRAPHY The GCA Novice Award in Photography Joyce Brown, The Garden Club of Englewood The Photography Committee Creativity Award... Jane H. Harder, Seattle Garden Club The Best in Show for Photography..... Avery Brighton, Rumson Garden Club DIVISION V, CONSERVATION/EDUCATION The Marion Thompson Fuller Brown Conservation Award The Garden Club of Englewood The Ann Lyon Crammond Award. The Garden Club of Englewood END Page 9 of 9